Parents and teachers argue that Bedford high school students should return after violence sends them into e-learning

Parents and teachers argue that Bedford high school students should return after violence sends them into e-learning.

BEDFORD, Ohio (WJW) – More than 100 parents, teachers, and students showed up at Columbus Middle School in Bedford Thursday night, upset over the district’s decision to keep high school kids at home distance learning until November 29 after Thanksgiving.

The plan was announced the night before as a result of recent fights in high school, as well as a student carrying a gun to a soccer game.

“There were threats and there was talk of a weapon. That’s something we take very seriously, ”said director Christopher Thompson.

At the meeting, the parents pointed out that the student with the gun was from another city and they do not believe that it is fair to punish other students for the actions of a few.

“Our children are in the news and they are being portrayed as disrespectful juvenile delinquents,” said one mother.

Administrators also announced that they are hiring more security personnel, emotional support and installing door alarms, surveillance cameras and metal detectors.

“You are punishing the children who want to learn and those who don’t. You should look for another option, ”said another mother.

Students also asked to return to class at the meeting, while some parents called for the superintendent’s resignation.

The Bedford Education Association president also spoke on behalf of the teachers and expressed deep concern about the plans.

“Teachers don’t want this for our students, but they never asked us and clearly being remote is not a solution, and it certainly is not a solution that teachers believe is the answer unless our students are at risk,” he said.

After half an hour of public comment, the board thanked everyone for attending and said they would get back to them in 24 hours.

As of now, the high school administration is expected to finalize the plans in the coming weeks.